RESUMO
BACKGROUND: The alignment of the lower limb prosthesis is an integral part of the prosthetic fitting. A properly aligned prosthesis contributes to optimal gait and overall function of the patient. The current offering of alignment componentry is expensive for low-income countries. The purpose of this study was to develop a lightweight and low-cost alignment coupler for the lower limb prosthesis. METHODS: An alignment coupler called the reversible adjustable coupling was designed and manufactured. Measurements of total anterior/posterior and medial/lateral and rotation in prostheses were recorded and mechanical testing performed. Swiftness and difficulty of use was also recorded. RESULTS: The reversible adjustable coupling permitted acceptable ranges of anterior/posterior and medial/lateral translation and 30° of internal and external rotation of prosthetic componentry. Repetitive loading of the coupling at a speed of 1 Hz under 1.28 kN load for 2000 cycles was successful, as were static and strength tests. DISCUSSION: The coupler provided acceptable ranges of anterior/posterior and medial/lateral and rotation adjustment and is acceptable for potential use in the alignment of both exoskeletal and endoskeletal prosthesis. The final weight of the component was 166 g and cost of $55.00 USD is affordable for low-income countries for use in clinical and educational settings.
RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To study the effectiveness in application of adjustable toe splint in decreasing metatarsalgia in patients with lesser toe deformity and the complication of adjustable toe splint usage. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Thirty-six patients who had claw toes or hammer toes with metatarsalgia were enrolled in aprospective, randomized single-blinded controlled trial at the Out Patient Rehabilitation Medicine Clinic, Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand between March and September 2011. Patients were randomized into two groups, the study group (using adjustable toe splint for 2 weeks) and the control group. Patients in both groups were advised as well to use proper shoes. RESULTS: All patients in each group completed the study. The baseline characteristics of the patients in both groups were similar The present study group reported more decrease pain at metatarsal heads and dorsum of toes than the control group (p < 0.05). Two patients reported complications from toe splint usage as toe abrasions. CONCLUSION: Using adjustable toe splint can decrease the metatarsalgia in patient with lesser toe deformity.
